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Earlier this year, the chief adviser had an extensive video discussion with Elon Musk, the founder of SpaceX, and owner of Tesla and X, to explore future collaboration and make further progress to introduce Starlink in Bangladesh Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has directed the commercial launch of Starlink’s satellite broadband internet service in Bangladesh within the next 90 days.
Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam conveyed this information in a statement on Tuesday.
Shafiqul added that while Starlink used its foreign satellite broadband gateway during the trial broadcast, the company will adhere to the Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) policy and utilize a local broadband gateway or International Internet Gateway (IIG) for commercial service in Bangladesh.
Earlier this year, the chief adviser had an extensive video discussion with Elon Musk, the founder of SpaceX, and owner of Tesla and X, to explore future collaboration and make further progress to introduce Starlink in Bangladesh.
Musk, at that time, expressed his belief that leveraging technological advancements such as Starlink could further drive innovation, economic empowerment, and financial inclusion in Bangladesh.
Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus has directed the relevant authorities to ensure the commercial launch of Starlink’s satellite broadband internet service in Bangladesh within 90 days.
According to officials, during trial broadcasts in the country, Starlink operated using its foreign satellite broadband gateway. But for commercial operations, the company must comply with the Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbit (NGSO) policy, which mandates the use of a local broadband gateway or International Internet Gateway (IIG), UNB reports.
Starlink, a subsidiary of Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has been in discussions with Bangladesh’s regulatory authorities regarding the licensing process.
The government has emphasised the importance of adhering to national regulations, including spectrum allocation and security requirements, before granting full operational approval.
Dr Yunus has also formally invited Elon Musk to visit Bangladesh for the official launch of the service. The initiative aims to address the recurring instances of internet shutdowns that have disrupted freelance and business activities.
Starlink’s entry into the market is seen as a significant breakthrough in ensuring uninterrupted connectivity, particularly benefiting remote communities and local entrepreneurs.
Bangladeshi companies are already collaborating with Starlink to establish ground stations, facilitating the integration of satellite connectivity.
Dr Yunus stressed that the new service would complement national efforts spearheaded by entities like Grameen Bank and Grameenphone.
